Backcountry Wilderness Area Nature Program Instructor

The Backcountry Wilderness Area Nature Program Instructor at Highlands Ranch Community Assoc is a part-time role responsible for guiding environmental education programs, including hikes and lessons on local ecology. The position requires interaction with participants of all ages, maintaining safety standards, and managing program supplies. Candidates should be at least 18 years old, have a passion for nature, and be flexible with scheduling. The job is located in Littleton, CO.
Job Details

HRCA Rec Center at Southridge – Highlands Ranch, CO

Part Time

$18.00 – $28.00 Hourly

Backcountry Wilderness Area

Description

JOB TITLE: Backcountry Wilderness Area Nature Program Instructor FLSA Status: Non-Exempt (Part Time Position)

General Statement of Duties: Responsible for running environmental education programs and performing tasks including but not limited to, guiding hikes, supervising and teaching children, and being on-sight for customer-guided experiences.

Supervision Received: Reports to the Backcountry Wilderness Area Environmental Education and Program Manager and the Backcountry Wilderness Area Environmental Education Coordinator.

Supervision Exercised: None

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Examples of Duties: The following examples of competencies are intended to be illustrative only and are not intended to be all inclusive.
• Guide and teach children, teens, and adults in a wide variety of programs, which may include any of the following based on prior experience, interest, and availability: early childhood programs, youth programs, adult and family programs, and events.
• Facilitate lessons or guide conversations on topics including, but not limited to, local flora and fauna, conservation, ecology, environmental sciences, wilderness survival skills, play-based learning, and inquiry-based learning.
• Implement educational and engaging outdoor nature programs.
• Actively interact with and engage program participants throughout the duration of the program.
• Maintain high standards of health and safety for all customers.
• Take and submit photos via WhatsApp to capture and share participant experiences in the Backcountry Wilderness Area.
• Set up and clean up all program supplies.
• Maintain the organization and upkeep of program supplies.
• Secure signed liability waivers from all participants prior to program participation and file them correctly.
• Communicate with the Environmental Education Manager and Coordinator after every program.
• Attend all required staff meetings.
• Work collaboratively with the Backcountry Wilderness Area team to achieve program goals.
• Ensure participant discipline and safety throughout all activities.
• Respond promptly and appropriately to emergency situations.
• Maintain a positive attitude during activities in all weather conditions and situations.
• Follow established policies and procedures.

Physical and Environmental Standards:
• Ability to work outdoors in varying and sometimes extreme weather conditions including heat, humidity, sun, wind, rain, cold, snow.
• Must be able to walk, hike, sit, crouch, bend, kneel, stoop, and reach; lift, push, pull, and lift up to 40 pounds unassisted.
• Vision requirements include near and far acuity; must be able to hear, speak, and communicate effectively.

Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS:

Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
• Minimum age requirement: 18 years.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including days, evenings, and weekends.
• Interest in, respect for, and ability to work with children, teens, and adults.
• Basic knowledge of ecological principles and environmental issues, with a willingness to continually learn.
• Previous experience teaching environmental education or science is preferred.
• Passion for nature and outdoor recreation.
• Ability to adapt lesson plans and instructions to accommodate a variety of learners.
• Ability to supervise and ensure the safety of up to 30 participants.
• Strong work ethic and motivation to contribute positively to the Backcountry Wilderness Area team.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to effectively interact with people from diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to work effectively in a busy environment with frequent distractions.
• Dedication to completing tasks thoroughly and efficiently.
• Excellent customer service skills with a professional demeanor.
• Ability to think quickly and respond to ever-changing outdoor conditions.
• Current First Aid, AED, and CPR certifications, or the ability to obtain them before the first day of employment.

Must pass a pre-employment background check and drug screening.

Benefits: Benefits for part time employees include Paid Sick Leave, EAP (Employee Assistance Program), Tuition Reimbursement, Employee Discounts (30%) for Programs and Events, Referral Program, Recreation Center usage.

401k plus company match and Health Insurance, Telehealth and Flex Plans after one year if the minimum hours requirement is determined.

Education: Working towards, or completion of, bachelor’s degree in a related field such as natural resources, science education, outdoor recreation, early childhood education, elementary education, or a human services field is preferred.

Experience: Childcare, education, or outdoor recreation experience is preferred.

Application Submittal Deadline: 4/30/2025

EOE

$15-$18/hour – Entry level, minimum previous childcare or environmental education experience

$18-$22/hour – Considered a lead under licensing requirements (over 460 hrs childcare experience. See Colorado State Licensing Rules and Regulations)

$22-$25/hour – All of the above qualifications plus college degree and/or 3+ years professional experience

$25-28/hour – All of the above qualifications plus college degree and or 5+ years professional experience

EOE